Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica. (more) Today in History—April 3: The First Ride of the Pony Express Written by Michele Metych Michele Metych is the lead editor for Today in History at Encyclopædia Britannica. Michele Metych Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Apr. 1, 2026 •History On this day at 7:15 pm, a cannon fired and a horse charged. Its rider leaned low over the saddle, carrying a bag packed with 49 letters and 5 telegrams. Off they raced toward a ferry waiting in St. Joseph, Missouri, to start the long journey west. Today in History is a daily newsletter from Britannica.Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc. Want to learn more about what happened on April 3, or any other day of the year? Sign up...

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